can I put a black-tailed molly with a gorami?

[Theresa_Meuse]

We purchased a new gorami to give company to our "Wiskers" gorami, but found the new smaller fish being chased, hurt, and eventually dead (we think Wiskers may have blinded the new fish and eventually killed it). Wiskers's previous companion that died was a 7" dino eel "Ellie" that I also suspect was bullied by Wiskers. Some friends just offered us a female black-tailed molly. Would placing the female black-tailed molly in the same 5 gallon tank as Wiskers be a bad idea? (I think so but I'd like to hear from you). Thanks!

Mrs. Meuse

:fish:

[Sharkman]

No other fish should be in the tank with the gourami if it is only a 5 gallon tank. The gourami should probably be in a 10 gallon tank minimum. THe gourami will definitely be aggressive in those close quarters. You could return the gourami and keep the molly if you'd like.

[Theresa_Meuse]

I'm so glad I found this aquarium forum. Thank you for your reply!
Kindly,

Mrs. Meuse

[VoidParadigm]

What type of Gourami is it?

Some species can become so ill-tempered that they'll allow nothing to live with them. My current Gourami even tries to attack my hand when I put it in.

In any case, most Gourami species need tanks closer to twenty and larger, with just the dwarfs being able to be kept in less, and even then needing at least ten gallons. The size of the tank is the most likely reason why your Gourami is killing everything.

If it wants to be alone, let it. Some species of Gourami are very temperamental.